Definition

Coaptite is a gel-like substance that is used as a bulking agent. It is injected around the sphincter where the urethra and bladder meet. Sphincter muscles control the release of urine from the bladder. The substance supports the urethra, decreasing incontinence.

Reasons for Procedure

This procedure is for women who have
stress urinary incontinence. This is the leakage of urine caused by weakening of the muscles around the bladder and pelvis.

What to Expect

Prior to Procedure

Discuss with you the type of anesthesia that will be used and the potential risks

Talk to your doctor about your medications. You may be asked to stop taking some medications up to one week before the procedure.

Other things to keep in mind before the procedure:

Arrange for a ride home from the hospital.

If instructed by your doctor, do not eat or drink for 8 hours before the procedure.

Anesthesia

This procedure can be done under local,
spinal, or
general
anesthesia. It will block any pain. Sedation may also be used to ease anxiety.

Description of Procedure

An IV will be placed in your arm. It will deliver fluids and medications directly into your bloodstream. A special jelly or fluid may be placed into your urethra to numb the area. If you are having spinal anesthesia, it will be injected into the spine. General anesthesia will be given through an IV.

A tiny camera will be inserted into your urethra. This will allow the doctor to see the bladder. The coaptite substance will be passed through the scope. It will be injected into the urethra wall near the bladder. The procedure will be repeated on the other side of the urethra. The gel will create a bulge just under the bladder.

Immediately After Procedure

You will be monitored as the anesthesia wears off.

How Long Will It Take?

The procedure usually takes 15-30 minutes.

How Much Will It Hurt?

Anesthesia prevents pain during the procedure. Ask your doctor about medication to help with pain after the injection.

Post-procedure Care

At the Care Center

After the procedure, the hospital staff may provide the following care:

Monitor you while you recover from the anesthesia and/or sedation

Help you to eat and move around again

Give you pain medication

You will not need to stay overnight.

At Home

When you return home, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:

Avoid difficult activity and heavy lifting.

Do not have sex until your doctor says it is safe to do so.

Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions.

Call Your Doctor

After arriving home, contact your doctor if you have any of the following:

Increased pressure or pain

Inability to urinate

Changes in frequency, odor, appearance, or volume of urine

Signs of infection, including fever or chills

Blood in urine

Painful urination or a burning sensation

Leaking urine

In case of an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Coaptite. United States Food and Drug Administration website. Available at:
http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ProductsandMedicalProcedures/DeviceApprovalsandClearances/Recently-ApprovedDevices/ucm078444.htm. Updated September 4, 2013. Accessed November 18, 2015.

Incontinence. American Association of Family Physicians website. Available at:
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/urinary-incontinence.html. Updated April 2014. Accessed November 18, 2015.